JP2019143212A - Electrolysis device - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide the electrolysis device capable of reducing the risk of deterioration of a cathode surface material.SOLUTION: The electrolysis device 1 comprises: an anode 2A, a cathode 2C having cathode power supply body 2CF and cathode surface material 2CS covering a surface of the cathode power supply body 2CF, an ion exchange membrane 3 that is in contact with the anode 2A and is disposed at a distance from the cathode surface material 2CS between the anode 2A and the cathode 2C, and a spacer S provided in a cathode water passage 10C between the cathode surface material 2CS and the ion exchange membrane 3.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

  The present invention relates to an electrolysis device for electrolyzing water between an anode and a cathode.

  Conventionally, as disclosed in, for example, Patent Document 1, an electrolysis device that electrolyzes water between an anode and a cathode has been developed. Conventional electrolysis devices include an anode power supply body and an anode having an anode surface covering the main surface of the anode power supply body, and a cathode power supply body and a cathode covering the main surface of the cathode power supply body. A cathode having a surface material;

  In the above-described conventional electrolysis device, the ion exchange membrane is in contact with the anode surface material and at a distance from the cathode surface material so as to face each of the anode and the cathode. And the cathode. In this conventional electrolysis device, it was generated in the vicinity of the cathode surface material by flowing water with a large flow velocity along the main surface while contacting the main surface of the cathode surface material on the ion exchange membrane side. Promotes the dissolution of hydrogen in water.

JP 2003-245669 A

  According to the above-described conventional electrolysis device, the ion exchange membrane may swell to the cathode surface material side, and may come into contact with a part of the cathode surface material. In this case, current concentration occurs at the site where the ion exchange membrane and the surface material for cathode contact. As a result, the surface material for cathode may be deteriorated.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems of the prior art. And the objective of this invention is providing the device for electrolysis which can reduce a possibility that the surface material for cathodes may deteriorate.

  In order to solve the above problems, an electrolysis device according to a first aspect of the present invention includes an anode, a cathode power supply, and a cathode surface material covering a main surface of the cathode power supply. A cathode, an ion-exchange membrane that is in contact with the anode and disposed at a distance from the cathode surface material between the anode and the cathode, and the cathode surface material and the ion-exchange membrane. And a spacer provided in the cathode water passage.

  An electrolysis device according to a second aspect of the present invention includes an anode, a cathode having a through-hole extending toward the anode, an ion exchange membrane disposed between the anode and the cathode, and the cathode Two cathode water passages that are provided on both sides and communicate with each other via the through holes.

  According to the electrolysis device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the risk of deterioration of the surface material for the cathode can be reduced.

It is a perspective appearance figure of the device for electrolysis of an embodiment. It is a perspective view of the structure in the case for anodes of the device for electrolysis of embodiment. It is a perspective view of the structure in the case for cathodes of the device for electrolysis of embodiment. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the device for electrolysis of embodiment. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolysis device of the embodiment, and is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in FIG. 4. FIG. 3 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of an anode, an ion exchange membrane, a spacer, and a cathode of the electrolysis device of the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a partially enlarged longitudinal sectional view of the anode, ion exchange membrane, spacer, and cathode of the electrolysis device of the embodiment, and is a sectional view taken along line VII-VII in FIG. 4.

  Hereinafter, an electrolysis device according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

  In each embodiment, parts denoted by the same reference numerals have the same function. Therefore, unless otherwise necessary, the description of the function of the part to which the same reference numeral is attached will not be repeated.

  The electrolysis device of the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Overall configuration of electrolysis device)
As shown in FIG. 1, the electrolysis device 1 includes a rectangular plate-like anode case 1A and a rectangular plate-like cathode case 1C. In the electrolysis device 1 shown in FIG. 1, the anode case 1 </ b> A shown in FIG. 2 and the cathode case 1 </ b> C shown in FIG. 3 are integrated so as to face each other.

(Anode case)
As shown in FIGS. 2, 4, and 5, the anode case 1 </ b> A accommodates the anode 2 </ b> A and constitutes a part of the outline of the electrolysis device 1. The material of the anode case 1A is acrylic resin. The anode case 1A has a thick rectangular and flat appearance, and has a complex-shaped anode case recess 1AC formed by digging in the main surface constituting the inner surface of the electrolysis device 1. Have.

  As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4, the anode case recess 1 </ b> AC has a water inlet hole 1 </ b> AI disposed in the vicinity of one end portion in the longitudinal direction of the inner surface of the electrolysis device 1. The anode case recess 1AC has a water outlet hole 1AO disposed in the vicinity of the other end portion in the longitudinal direction of the inner surface of the electrolysis device 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the anode case recess 1AC has an anode conductive wire insertion hole 1AL arranged between the center of the inner surface of the electrolysis device 1 in the longitudinal direction and the water outlet hole 1AO. .

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, anode case recess 1AC is arranged at substantially the center of the inner surface in the longitudinal direction of the inner surface of electrolysis device 1, and has a water inlet hole 1AI, a water outlet hole 1AO, and anode conductivity. It has an anode planar depression 1AD including a line insertion hole 1AL. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the anode case recess 1AC has an annular packing recess 1AP disposed outside the anode planar recess 1AD so as to surround the anode planar recess 1AD. ing.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the anode case recess 1AC includes the water discharge hole 1AO, but in a region not including the anode conductive wire insertion hole 1AL, the device for electrolysis further than the anode planar depression 1AD. 1 has a buffer recess 1AB that is recessed toward the outer surface. As shown in FIG. 2, the anode case recess 1AC includes a plurality of anode cases disposed further outside the annular packing recess 1AP positioned outside the buffer recess 1AB and the anode planar recess 1AD. A fixing hole 1AF is provided.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, a plurality of disk-shaped anode case ribs 1AR are arranged inside the anode surface depression 1AD. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the anode depression 1AD and the buffer depression 1AB are connected by an anode case inclined surface 1AS.

(Cathode case)
As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the cathode case 1 </ b> C accommodates the cathode 2 </ b> C and a plurality of, for example, three spacers S, and constitutes a part of the outer shell of the electrolysis device 1. The material of the cathode case 1C is acrylic resin. As shown in FIG. 3, the cathode case 1 </ b> C has a thick rectangular and flat plate-like appearance, and is a complicated shape formed by digging in the main surface constituting the inner surface of the electrolysis device 1. It has a cathode case recess 1CC having a shape.

  As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 5, the cathode case recess 1CC has a water inlet hole 1CI disposed in the vicinity of one end portion in the longitudinal direction of the inner surface of the electrolysis device 1. The cathode case recess 1CC has a water outlet hole 1CO disposed in the vicinity of the other end portion in the longitudinal direction of the inner surface of the electrolysis device 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the cathode case recess 1CC has a cathode conductive line insertion hole 1CL disposed between the center of the inner surface of the electrolysis device 1 in the longitudinal direction and the water outlet hole 1CO. .

  As shown in FIG. 4, the cathode case recess 1CC is disposed substantially at the center of the inner surface of the electrolysis device 1, and includes a water inlet 1CI, a water outlet 1CO, and a cathode conductive line insertion hole 1CL. It has an indentation 1CD. As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, an annular packing recess 1 </ b> CP disposed outside the cathode planar recess 1 </ b> CD is provided so as to surround the cathode planar recess 1 </ b> CD.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the cathode case recess 1CC includes a water outlet hole 1CO. However, the cathode case recess 1CC has a buffer recess 1CB that is recessed further toward the outer surface of the electrolysis device 1 than the cathode recess 1CD in a region not including the cathode conductive wire insertion hole 1CL. doing. The cathode case recess 1CC is provided so as to surround the buffer recess 1CB and the cathode planar recess 1CD. The cathode case recess 1CC has a cathode case fixing hole 1CF disposed on the outer side of the annular packing recess 1CP positioned outside the buffer recess 1CB and the cathode planar recess 1CD.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, a plurality of disc-like cathode case ribs 1CR are arranged inside the cathode surface depression 1CD. As can be seen from FIGS. 4 and 5, the disc-shaped cathode case rib 1CR and the disc-shaped anode case rib 1AR are provided so that their circular tip faces face each other. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the cathode recess 1CD and the buffer recess 1CB are connected to each other by a cathode case inclined surface 1CS.

(Ion exchange membrane)
As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, in the present embodiment, ion exchange membrane 3 is arranged between anode 2A and cathode 2C. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the ion exchange membrane 3 is in contact with the anode surface material 2AS and is disposed at a distance from the cathode surface material 2CS.

  More specifically, the ion exchange membrane 3 of the present embodiment allows hydrogen ions, unavoidable metal ions, water molecules, and oxygen molecules generated in the vicinity of the anode 2A to pass but does not allow cations to pass. It is a membrane. Examples of the cation exchange membrane include “Nafion (R)”, a trade name of DuPont. The thickness of the ion exchange membrane 3 is about 0.1 mm. The ion exchange membrane 3 has a thin planar shape.

  The ion exchange membrane 3 is a fluororesin copolymer based on sulfonated tetrafluoroethylene. Specifically, the ion exchange membrane 3 is polyfluoroethylene-sulfonic acid. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, one main surface of the ion exchange membrane 3 is in contact with one whole main surface of the anode surface material 2AS. As shown in FIG. 5, a part of the other main surface of the ion exchange membrane 3 is in contact with a plurality of spacers S provided at a distance from each other. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the end of the ion exchange membrane 3 protrudes further outward from the outer peripheral edges of the anode 2A (anode surface material 2AS) and the cathode 2C (cathode surface material 2CS). It extends to. Further, the end of the ion exchange membrane 3 is sandwiched between the packing P on the anode case 1A side and the packing P on the cathode case 1C side.

(Power supply for anode <titanium face material>)
The anode power supply 2AF shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 receives negative charges from the anode surface material 2AS. The thickness of the anode power supply 2AF is 0.4 mm. The anode power supply 2AF has a thin planar shape. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, on the main surface of the anode power supply 2AF facing the ion exchange membrane 3, through-holes THA having a diameter of 1 mm and an interval of 1 mm are formed, for example. However, the through hole THA only needs to have a hole diameter of about 1 nm to 1 mm, for example. The anode power supply 2AF is made of titanium and inevitable impurities.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, an anode surface material 2AS is provided on one main surface of the anode power supply 2AF. An anode surface material 2AS is also provided on a part of the inner peripheral surface of the through hole THA of the anode power supply body 2AF. However, the anode surface material 2AS may be provided on the entire inner peripheral surface of the through hole THA of the anode power supply body 2AF. As shown in FIG. 4, anode conductive line 2AE is inserted into anode conductive line insertion hole 1AL and is electrically connected to the other main surface of anode power supply body 2AF. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, a plurality of disk-like anode case ribs 1AR protruding from the anode surface depression 1AD of the anode case 1A are in contact with the other main surface of the anode power supply body 2AF.

(Surface material for anode <PtIr>)
The anode surface material 2AS provides a place where a reaction of 2H ₂ O → 4H ⁺ + O ₂ + 4e ⁻ is performed. The thickness of the anode surface material 2AS is 0.1 μm. The anode surface material 2AS is thin and has a planar shape. The anode surface material 2AS has fine irregularities (not shown) on its main surface, and a large number of fine and continuous voids (not shown). The material of the anode surface material 2AS is an alloy of platinum and iridium. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the anode surface material 2AS is provided so as to be in contact with the whole of one main surface of the anode power supply body 2AF. The anode case 1A and the cathode case 1C Are also in contact with the ion exchange membrane 3. However, the anode surface material 2AS may be formed on the entire surface of the anode power supply body 2AF.

(Power supply for cathode <Titanium face material>)
The cathode power supply 2CF supplies negative charges to the cathode surface material 2CS (see FIG. 6). The thickness of the cathode power supply 2CF is 0.4 mm. The cathode power supply body 2CF has a thin planar shape. Indentations D having a diameter of 1 mm and a distance of 1 mm are formed on the main surface of the cathode power supply 2CF facing the ion exchange membrane 3. Through holes THC having a diameter of 1 mm and a diameter of 1 mm are formed on the main surface facing the ion exchange membrane 3 at a position not including the depression D of the cathode power supply 2CF. However, only one of the recess D and the through hole THC may be provided in the cathode power supply body 2CF. The through hole THC only needs to have a hole diameter of about 1 nm to 1 mm. The cathode power supply 2CF is made of titanium and inevitable impurities.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, a cathode surface material 2CS is provided on one main surface of the cathode power supply 2CF. Further, the cathode surface material 2CS is also formed on the recess D of the cathode power supply body 2CF and a part of the inner peripheral surface of the through hole THC. However, the cathode surface material 2CS may be provided on the entire inner peripheral surface of the through hole THC of the cathode power supply body 2CF. As shown in FIG. 4, the cathode conductive line 2CE is inserted into the cathode conductive line insertion hole 1CL and connected to the other main surface of the cathode power supply body 2CF. As shown in FIG. 4, in a state where the anode case 1A and the cathode case 1C are combined, the other main surface of the cathode power supply body 2CF protrudes from the cathode depression 1CD of the cathode case 1C. A plurality of disc-shaped cathode case ribs 1CR are in contact with each other.

(Surface material for cathode <PtIr>)
The cathode surface material 2CS provides a place where the reaction of 2H ⁺ + 2e ⁻ → H ₂ takes place. The thickness of the cathode surface material 2CS is 0.1 μm. The cathode surface material 2CS is thin and has a planar shape. The cathode surface material 2CS has fine irregularities (not shown) on its main surface and many fine and continuous voids (not shown). The material of the cathode surface material 2CS is an alloy of platinum and iridium. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the cathode surface material 2CS is formed so as to be in contact with the whole of one main surface of the cathode power supply 2CF, and the anode case 1A, the cathode case 1C, Are in contact with the spacer S. However, the cathode surface material 2CS may be formed on the entire surface of the cathode power supply body 2CF.

(Spacer)
As shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, the spacer S is provided in the cathode water passage 10 </ b> C between the cathode surface material 2 </ b> CS and the ion exchange membrane 3. Therefore, the presence of the spacer S can suppress contact between the ion exchange membrane 3 and the cathode surface material 2CS due to the swelling of the ion exchange membrane 3. As a result, deterioration of the cathode surface material 2CS can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of current concentration at the portion where the spacer S and the ion exchange membrane 3 are in contact.

  As shown in FIG. 6, there is a gap C through which water flows between the spacer S and the cathode surface material 2CS. Therefore, water flows into the portion covered by the spacer S in the entire surface of the cathode surface material 2CS through the gap C. Therefore, the reduction amount of the area where the cathode surface material 2CS comes into contact with water can be reduced. As a result, the reduction amount due to the presence of the spacer S in the amount of hydrogen generated in the cathode 2C can be reduced. Further, in the present embodiment, the concave portion formed on the surface corresponding to the cathode surface material 2CS of the spacer S functions as the gap C. Further, the recess D formed on the surface of the cathode surface material 2CS also exhibits the same function as the gap C. However, the gap C described above may not be a concave portion intentionally formed in the spacer S or the cathode surface material 2CS, but may be naturally generated by unevenness of the cathode surface material 2CS or the spacer S. For example, a void (void of PtIr plating) naturally formed on the main surface of the cathode surface material 2CS during the manufacturing process may exhibit the same function as the gap C described above.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, the spacer S is arranged in the cathode water passage 10 </ b> C so that the longitudinal direction of the spacer S extends along the longitudinal direction of the cathode water passage 10 </ b> C. Therefore, the water flow resistance due to the presence of the spacer S can be reduced.

  The spacer S is in contact with the cathode surface material 2CS so that the longitudinal direction of the spacer S extends along the longitudinal direction of the cathode surface material 2CS. Therefore, the deflection of the ion exchange membrane 3 in the longitudinal direction of the cathode surface material 2CS can be reduced. As a result, the possibility of contact between the cathode surface material 2CS and the ion exchange membrane 3 can be further reduced.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the cathode power supply body 2CF has a recess D and a through hole THC at least on the surface facing the ion exchange membrane 3. The inner surface of the recess D and a part of the inner surface of the through hole THC are covered with the cathode surface material 2CS. Therefore, at the positions of the recesses D and the through holes THC, the flow rate of water is slightly slower than the other positions. As a result, more hydrogen can be generated at some positions of the recess D and the through hole THC.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the area where the spacer S and the ion exchange membrane 3 are in contact is larger than the area where the spacer S and the cathode surface material 2CS are in contact. Therefore, by reducing the area of the portion where the spacer S and the cathode surface material 2CS are in contact with each other, the area of the portion of the cathode surface material 2CS that effectively functions to generate hydrogen can be increased. it can.

  More specifically, the spacer S is provided between the cathode surface material 2CS and the ion exchange membrane 3, and the distance between the cathode surface material 2CS and the ion exchange membrane 3, that is, the cathode passage material. The width of the water channel 10C (P1) is maintained. Moreover, the spacer S avoids the current concentration which arises in a contact location by suppressing the partial contact of the ion exchange membrane 3 and the surface material 2CS for cathodes. The shape of the spacer S is a rod-shaped member having a trapezoidal cross section, as shown in FIG. Both ends of the spacer S are bent to form hook portions (see FIG. 2). However, the spacer S may be a rod-shaped member having a rectangular cross section or a circular cross section.

  As can be seen from the above, the area of the portion where the spacer S and the cathode surface material 2CS are in contact is smaller than the area of the portion where the spacer S and the ion exchange membrane 3 are in contact. Specifically, the width of the portion of the spacer S that contacts the ion exchange membrane 3 is, for example, 3 mm. The width of the portion of the spacer S that contacts the cathode surface material 2CS is, for example, 2 mm. Therefore, even if the spacer S is present in the cathode water passage 10C (P1), the area of the portion of the cathode surface material 2CS that effectively functions to generate hydrogen is larger. A recess D is formed in a portion of the spacer S facing the ion exchange membrane 3. A recess D is formed at a portion of the spacer S facing the cathode surface material 2CS. The spacer S is sandwiched between the ion exchange membrane 3 and the cathode surface material 2CS. In this state, the hooks (see FIG. 2) at both ends of the spacer S are in contact with the cathode case 1C.

(Cathode channel)
As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the two cathode water passages 10C (P1) and 10C (P2) are provided on both main surface sides of the cathode 2C, and communicate with each other via the through hole THC. Yes. Therefore, turbulent flow is generated in the vicinity of the through hole THC due to the movement of water through the through hole THC. As a result, it is possible to suppress hydrogen generated in the vicinity of the cathode 2C from staying in the vicinity of the cathode 2C and aggregating. Therefore, dissolution of hydrogen in water is promoted.

  As can be seen from FIG. 6, the cross-sectional area of the cathode water passage 10C (P1) on the surface side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C in the cross section of the channel crossing the through hole THC is the ion exchange membrane of the cathode 2C. 3 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the cathode water passage 10 </ b> C (P <b> 2) on the back side of the surface facing 3. Therefore, the flow rate V1 of water on the surface side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C is larger than the flow rate V2 of water on the back side of the surface facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C. As a result, water flows into the cathode water passage 10C (P1) on the side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 from the through hole THC, thereby promoting the dissolution of the generated hydrogen in water.

  In the cross section of the flow path crossing the through hole THC in FIG. 6, the flow path cross-sectional area of the cathode water passage 10C (P2) on the back side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C is opposed to the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C. The cross-sectional area of the cathode water passage 10C (P1) on the front surface side may be smaller. In this case, the flow rate V2 of water on the back side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C is larger than the flow rate V1 of water on the surface side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C. Therefore, a part of hydrogen generated in the cathode water passage 10C (P1) on the surface side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C moves so as to pass through the through hole THC, and the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C. The cathode is in contact with water in the cathode water passage 10C (P2) on the back side of the surface opposite to the surface. As a result, aggregation of hydrogen generated in the vicinity of the cathode 2C can be suppressed. Therefore, also in this case, dissolution of hydrogen into water can be promoted.

  The cathode 2C includes a cathode power supply body 2CF and a cathode surface material 2CS that covers the surface of the cathode power supply body 2CF that faces the ion exchange membrane 3. Part or all of the inner peripheral surface of the through hole THC is also covered with the cathode surface material 2CS. Therefore, since hydrogen is generated inside the through hole THC, the area of the cathode 2C where hydrogen is generated can be increased. As a result, the amount of hydrogen generated can be increased.

(Assembling the device for electrolysis)
A cathode surface material 2CS is deposited on one main surface of the cathode power supply 2CF by electrolytic plating. At this time, the cathode surface material 2CS is also deposited on the surface of the recess D of the cathode power supply body 2CF and the surface of the through hole THC. The cathode surface material 2CS may be deposited on part or all of the through hole THC.

  The cathode power supply 2CF is installed to expose the cathode surface material 2CS with respect to the cathode planar depression 1CD. In this state, the cathode conductive line 2CE is inserted further into the inner side surface of the cathode case 1C through the cathode conductive line insertion hole 1CL and connected to the cathode power supply 2CF.

  Each of the three spacers S has its longitudinal direction along the longitudinal direction of the cathode power supply 2CF, and both end portions in the short direction of the cathode power supply 2CF and the short direction of the cathode power supply 2CF. Are arranged on the cathode surface material 2CS at substantially equal intervals. Thereby, the state shown in FIG. 2 is obtained.

  Thereafter, the hook portion (see FIG. 2) of the spacer S is fixed to the cathode case 1C with an adhesive. In this state, the longitudinal direction of the spacer S and the longitudinal direction of the cathode surface material 2CS are along the same direction. In this state, the area of the portion where the spacer S and the ion exchange membrane 3 are in contact is larger than the area of the portion where the spacer S and the cathode surface material 2CS are in contact.

  The packing P is inserted into the packing recess 1AP. In this state, the ion exchange membrane 3 is superimposed on the cathode 2C. The peripheral edge of the ion exchange membrane 3 is positioned outside the packing recess 1AP.

  The anode power supply 2AF is disposed in the anode surface depression 1AD so as to expose the anode surface material 2AS. In this state, the anode conductive wire 2AE is inserted further into the inner side surface of the anode case 1A through the anode conductive wire insertion hole 1AL, and is electrically connected to the anode power supply 2AF.

  The packing P is inserted into the packing recess 1AP. With the anode surface material 2AS facing the ion exchange membrane 3, the inner surface of the cathode case 1C and the inner surface of the anode case 1A are overlapped with each other. In this state, the disc-shaped cathode case rib 1CR and the disc-shaped anode case rib 1AR are disposed so as to face each other. Thereby, the state shown in FIG. 3 is obtained.

  In the state shown in FIG. 1, by inserting screws and nuts (not shown) into the cathode case fixing hole 1CF and the anode case fixing hole 1AF, the cathode case 1C and the anode case 1A are fixed.

  In this state, the vicinity of the outer periphery of the ion exchange membrane 3 is sandwiched by the packing P as shown in FIGS. Further, the vicinity of the center of the ion exchange membrane 3 is supported by the anode surface material 2AS and the spacer S. At this time, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 7, the ion exchange membrane 3 is provided at a distance from the cathode surface material 2CS.

(Incorporation of electrolysis device into electrolyzed water generator)
The electrolysis device 1 is attached to the electrolyzed water generating device, the water inlet pipe is attached to the water inlet hole 1AI and the water inlet hole 1CI, and the water outlet pipe is attached to the water outlet hole 1AO and the water outlet hole 1CO. Here, the water outlet holes 1AO, 1CO are arranged to be higher than the water inlet hole 1AI and the water inlet hole 1CI. In this state, the longitudinal direction of the spacer S and the longitudinal direction of the cathode water passages 10C (P1) and 10C (P2) extend along the same direction. The external conductive line is connected to anode conductive line 2AE and cathode conductive line 2CE, and is also connected to a power source.

(Operation of electrolysis in electrolysis device)
Confirmation of the initial operation of the electrolysis device 1 is started by energizing the operation power source. For example, based on the current value when a predetermined voltage is applied between the anode 2A and the cathode 2C, the above-described disconnection of each external conductive line, improper contact between the ion exchange membrane 3 and the cathode 2C, and the cathode The presence or absence of defects such as deterioration of the surface material 2CS is determined. In this test, if an abnormality is detected, the abnormality is notified and the operation of the electrolyzed water generating device is stopped.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 4, after water flows into the electrolysis device 1, it flows from the water inlet 1AI and water inlet 1CI side toward the water outlet 1AO and water outlet 1CO, and the device for electrolysis 1 interior space is filled. At this time, the water is supplied to the cathode water passages 10C (P1) and 10C (P2) on both sides of the through hole THC of the cathode power supply body 2CF and the cathode surface material 2CS, and the anode power supply body 2AF and the anode surface material. It flows through the anode water passage 10A on both sides of the 2AS through hole THA. Here, the flow velocity V1 of water flowing on the main surface side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C (flow velocity on the exposed surface side of the cathode surface material 2CS) is the main surface facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C. It is larger than the flow velocity V2 of the water flowing on the back side (the flow velocity on the exposed surface side of the cathode power supply 2CF).

  When the power source of the electrolysis device 1 is turned on, hydrogen is generated mainly on the main surface of the cathode surface material 2CS facing the ion exchange membrane 3 by electrolysis. Here, hydrogen is generated in the through holes THC provided in the cathode surface material 2CS, the cathode surface material 2CS disposed in the depression D of the cathode power supply 2CF, and the cathode power supply 2CF. It is on the surface material 2CS for cathode adhering on the inner peripheral surface of the through hole THC.

  Hereinafter, the characteristic configuration of the electrolysis device 1 of the embodiment and the effects obtained thereby will be described.

  (1) The electrolysis device 1 includes an anode 2A, a cathode 2C, an ion exchange membrane 3, and a spacer S. The cathode 2C includes a cathode power supply body 2CF and a cathode surface material 2CS that covers the main surface of the cathode power supply body 2CF. The ion exchange membrane 3 is in contact with the anode 2A, and is arranged at a distance from the cathode surface material 2CS between the anode 2A and the cathode 2C. The spacer S is provided in the cathode water passage 10 </ b> C between the cathode surface material 2 </ b> CS and the ion exchange membrane 3.

  According to said structure, it can suppress that the ion exchange membrane 3 and the surface material 2CS for cathodes contact due to the swelling of the ion exchange membrane 3. FIG. Therefore, deterioration of the cathode surface material 2CS can be suppressed.

  (2) It is preferable that a gap C through which water flows exists between the spacer S and the cathode surface material 2CS. According to this, water also flows through the gap C on the surface of the region covered with the spacer S of the entire surface of the cathode surface material 2CS. Therefore, the amount by which the area where the cathode surface material 2CS is in contact with water due to the presence of the spacer S can be reduced. As a result, the reduction amount due to the presence of the spacer S in the amount of hydrogen generated in the cathode 2C can be reduced.

  (3) It is preferable that the spacer S is arranged in the cathode water passage 10C so that the longitudinal direction of the spacer S extends along the longitudinal direction of the cathode water passage 10C. According to this, the water flow resistance that increases due to the presence of the spacer S can be minimized.

  (4) It is preferable that the spacer S is in contact with the cathode surface material 2CS so that the longitudinal direction of the spacer S extends along the longitudinal direction of the cathode surface material 2CS. This can reduce the deflection of the ion exchange membrane 3 in the longitudinal direction of the cathode surface material 2CS. Therefore, the possibility of contact between the cathode surface material 2CS and the ion exchange membrane 3 can be further reduced.

  (5) The cathode power supply 2CF preferably has at least one of the recess D and the through hole THC on at least the main surface facing the ion exchange membrane 3. Moreover, it is preferable that at least a part of the inner surface of at least one of the recess D and the through-hole THC is covered with the cathode surface material 2CS. According to this, in at least any one position of the hollow D and the through-hole THC, the flow rate of water becomes slower compared to other positions. Therefore, more hydrogen can be generated at at least one of the recess D and the through hole THC.

  (6) It is preferable that the area of the part where the spacer S and the cathode surface material 2CS are in contact is smaller than the area of the part where the spacer S and the ion exchange membrane 3 are in contact. According to this, by reducing the area of the portion where the spacer S and the cathode surface material 2CS are in contact with each other, the area of the cathode surface material 2CS that effectively functions to generate hydrogen is further increased. can do.

  (7) The electrolysis device 1 includes an anode 2A, a cathode 2C, an ion exchange membrane 3, and two cathode water passages 10C (P1) and 10C (P2). The cathode 2C has a through hole THC extending toward the anode 2A. The ion exchange membrane 3 is disposed between the anode 2A and the cathode 2C. The two cathode water passages 10C (P1) and 10C (P2) are provided on both sides of the cathode 2C and communicate with each other via the through hole THC. According to this, water moves between the two cathode water passages 10C (P1) and 10C (P2) via the through hole THC, thereby generating a turbulent flow in the vicinity of the through hole THC. Therefore, it is possible to suppress hydrogen generated in the vicinity of the cathode 2C from staying in the vicinity of the cathode 2C and aggregating. As a result, dissolution of the generated hydrogen in water is promoted.

  (8) The cross-sectional area of the cathode water passage 10C (P1) on the surface side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C is such that the cathode water passage 10C on the back side of the surface facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C. It may be smaller than the channel cross-sectional area of (P2). According to this, the flow velocity V1 of the water flowing on the surface side of the cathode water passage 10C (P1) facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C is such that the flow rate for cathode on the back side of the surface facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C. It is larger than the flow velocity V2 of the water flowing through the water channel 10C (P2). Therefore, water flows from the cathode water passage 10C (P2) on the back side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 to the cathode water passage 10C (P1) on the surface side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 through the through hole TH. By flowing in, dissolution of generated hydrogen in water is promoted.

  (9) The cathode cross-sectional area of the cathode water passage 10C (P2) on the back side of the surface facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C is such that the cathode water passage 10C on the surface side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C. It may be smaller than the channel cross-sectional area of (P1). According to this, the flow velocity V2 of the water flowing through the cathode side water passage 10C (P2) on the surface side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C is such that the cathode flow rate on the back side of the surface facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C. It is larger than the flow velocity V1 of the water flowing through the water channel 10C (P1). Therefore, a part of hydrogen generated in the cathode water passage 10C (P1) on the surface side facing the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C moves so as to pass through the through hole THC, and the ion exchange membrane 3 of the cathode 2C. The cathode is in contact with water in the cathode water passage 10C (P2) on the back side of the surface opposite to the surface. Therefore, aggregation of hydrogen generated in the vicinity of the cathode 2C can be suppressed. As a result, dissolution of generated hydrogen in water can be promoted.

  (10) The cathode 2C may include a cathode power supply 2CF and a cathode surface material 2CS that covers the main surface of the cathode power supply 2CF facing the ion exchange membrane 3. It is preferable that at least a part of the inner peripheral surface of the through hole THC is also covered with the cathode surface material 2CS. According to this, since hydrogen is generated inside the through hole THC, the area of the cathode 2C where hydrogen is generated can be increased.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Electrolysis device 2A Anode 2C Cathode 2CF Cathode power supply 2CS Cathode surface material 3 Ion exchange membrane 10C (P1), 10C (P2) Cathode water passage D Dent S Spacer THC Through hole V1, V2 Flow rate of water

Claims (10)

The anode,
A cathode having a cathode power supply, and a cathode surface material covering a main surface of the cathode power supply;
An ion exchange membrane in contact with the anode and disposed at a distance from the cathode surface material between the anode and the cathode;
An electrolysis device, comprising: a spacer provided in a cathode water passage between the cathode surface material and the ion exchange membrane.   The device for electrolysis according to claim 1, wherein a gap through which water flows is present between the spacer and the surface material for a cathode.   The electrolysis device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the spacer is disposed in the cathode water passage so that a longitudinal direction of the spacer extends along a longitudinal direction of the cathode water passage.   The device for electrolysis according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the spacer is in contact with the surface material for a cathode so that a longitudinal direction of the spacer extends along a longitudinal direction of the surface material for the cathode. . The cathode power supply has at least one of a recess and a through hole on at least a main surface facing the ion exchange membrane,
The device for electrolysis according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least a part of an inner surface of at least one of the recess and the through hole is covered with the surface material for a cathode.   The area of the part which the said spacer and the said surface material for cathodes are contacting is smaller than the area of the part which the said spacer and the said ion exchange membrane are contacting, The Claim 1 in any one of Claims 1-5. Electrolysis device. The anode,
A cathode having a through hole extending toward the anode;
An ion exchange membrane disposed between the anode and the cathode;
An electrolysis device comprising two cathode water passages provided on both sides of the cathode and communicating with each other via the through hole.   In the two cathode water passages, the channel cross-sectional area of the cathode water passage on the surface side of the cathode facing the ion exchange membrane is the same as that for the cathode on the back side of the surface of the cathode facing the ion exchange membrane. The device for electrolysis according to claim 7, wherein the device is smaller than a cross-sectional area of the water passage.   In the two cathode water passages, the cross-sectional area of the cathode water passage on the back side of the surface of the cathode facing the ion exchange membrane is the same as that of the cathode on the surface side of the cathode facing the ion exchange membrane. The device for electrolysis according to claim 7, wherein the device is smaller than a cross-sectional area of the water passage. The cathode includes a cathode power supply, and a cathode surface material covering a main surface of the cathode power supply facing the ion exchange membrane,
The device for electrolysis according to claim 8 or 9, wherein at least a part of an inner peripheral surface of the through hole is also covered with the surface material for a cathode.

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